Sensational Spinels
In the world of coloured gemstones, most of us are familiar with rubies and sapphires, however, there is a hidden treasure that has time, and time again gone unnoticed - it is the gem-lovers gem, but we know you’ll love it too! The Spinel Gemstone ticks all the boxes in our checklist with its vibrant range of colours, exceptional scintillation, durability and affordability.
One of the most striking features of Spinel is its wide range of captivating colours that make the gemstone so enchanting. While red is the most popular and sought-after hue which rivals the Ruby, spinel can also be found in shades of pink, purple, blue, orange and even black, with the extensive range of colours under the sun, the Spinel understandably holds a place in our hearts. But it’s not just the colours that make the Spinel so enchanting! Another remarkable characteristic of Spinel is its exceptional brilliance, with a high refractive index, spinel exhibits the dazzling sparkle which you see in a diamond.
With the wide and rich range of colours available, spinel is often mistaken for other gemstones due to its similar appearance. So much so, it has historically been referred to as the ‘Great Imposter’. In fact, one of the most infamous gems originally known as the ‘Black Prince's Ruby’ in the British Imperial State Crown is actually a spinel! Understandably, spinel and ruby are not only so similar in colour and hue, they can also both be found in the mines of Sri Lanka, Vietnam and Tanzania. It wasn't till 1783 that a mineralogist discovered they were not the same thing.
Mini Solis ring personalised with a beautiful Spinel
Durability is another key factor that sets the spinel apart from other coloured gemstone varieties, with a hardness of 8 on Mohs scale, it is highly resistant to scratches and everyday wear. This little powerhouse of a gemstone is an excellent choice for your heirloom pieces that will withstand the test of time, to be worn and treasured for years to come.
Despite its exceptional qualities, spinel remains relatively affordable compared to other gemstones of similar quality, beauty and rarity. Its affordability makes spinel an attractive option, especially for those who love the fiery colour of a ruby without the ruby price tag. As the world begins to recognise the unique qualities of spinel, its gradually increasing demand has led to a rise in spinel mining and production, ensuring a steady supply of these exquisite gemstones are available.
If you’re on the search for a special gemstone that stands out from the crowd, don’t overlook the allure and beauty of spinel. It would make the perfect option to consider for the Fine Solitaire, Oval Wide Organic ring or Alma, essentially anything and everything!
